England batting uncertain says Harris

AAP

25 September 2013

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Paceman Ryan Harris has welcomed the handful of inexperienced additions to an otherwise "stock standard" England squad for the return Ashes tour this summer, saying the uncertainty around their best batting options will play into the hands of Australia.

Controversial spinner Monty Panesar and three uncapped players - batsman Gary Ballance, all-rounder Ben Stokes and seamer Boyd Ranking - were on Monday named in a 17-man squad containing few surprises and the bulk of the side that claimed a 3-0 home Ashes win last month.

Experienced batsman Nick Compton was a notable omission, with Ballance and top order specialist Michael Carberry favoured by selectors.

Harris said Australia would need to be ready for whoever fills the order but relished England's apparent batting dilemma around the front five ahead of the opening Ashes Test at the Gabba on November 21.